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Olongapo City, Philippines is a major city of more than 200,000 inhabitants. Olongapo didn’t become an official city until 1966. Before that, it was a U.S. naval base and a municipality. Today, the area is young and vibrant but still retains the feel of a small town. While you won't find the city to be as modern as a European one, Olongapo has its charm and provides plenty of opportunities to explore and discover. Before you travel to Olongapo, always check the U.S. State Department website or the website for the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines for tourist advisories or warnings. The Philippines is considered a risky travel zone because of terrorist activity and frequent kidnappings of foreigners.

When to Visit

According to Lonely Planet, the Philippines offer good weather year-round. During monsoon season, which lasts from June to December, you can expect tropical storms and high waves at times, but these are occassional and unpredictable. Tourism doesn’t stop during monsoon season, which is a good sign that the weather is still “acceptable.” Because Olongapo is a coastal city, the chances of high waves and typhoons are higher. Temperatures are at their highest in May, when they commonly reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

City Landmarks

Olongapo has some interesting landmarks that have become major tourist attractions. One of those is Ulo ng Apo -- located in the Bajac-Bajac rotunda, it is a large sculpture depicting the head of a native chief. This is a homage to the natives who inhabited the area more than a century ago. Another landmark worth visiting is the World Peace Memorial at the entrance of the city. The memorial honors those who died in the battle of Zigzag Pass during World War II. The battle helped the Philippines regained the western shore of Manila Bay from the Japanese. The Kalaklan Bridge -- which crosses over Subic Bay and has a pedestrian lane with great views of the water -- is also worth a visit.

What to Do

The Olongapo City Museum (no website; Riazl Avenue, 011-047-223-6470) chronicles the history of the city. Olongapo was the last city in the Philippines to become free of American military control. The museum showcases World War II battles in the area, as well as early development and industry. There are many displays of wax figures representing local politicians and heroes as well as workers or soldiers from the war. The Jungle Environmental Survival Training Camp in the Subic Bay Forest offers you a chance to train just like you would in the military. If you just want to have fun, choose one of the half-day programs. If you truly want to experience what survival training is all about, select the multi-day package, where you will be taken into the jungle and taught how to find food and water.

Shopping and Accommodations

Despite being a large city, Olongapo feels very much like a small town when it comes to shopping. Rather than lots of large malls and urban shopping environments, Olongapo is best known for its city markets, small shops and unique shopping opportunities. The Olongapo Market is the best place to experience what the locals really eat and buy. Try haggling for prices, which is expected, and buy some produce, local souvenirs or handcrafts. If you're after electronics or brand-name items at a good price, you're better off going to Manila, which is less than two hours away.

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About the Author

Aside from writing experience, I also have coaching/teaching experience, both as an writing coach (currently teaching three workshops at www.coffeehouseforwriters.com) and an ESL (English-as-a-Second-Language)teacher abroad. I'm a certified Nutrition Consultant and fitness trainer and a longtime contributor to health/wellness publications, from Self to Marie Claire. I am fluent in Spanish and have worked as a translator and a language instructor. I also have two books forthcoming in 2008.